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About Your Journey
A wonderful South Island winter escape filled with wine, wildlife and alpine charm.
Discover the South Island at a magical time of year, from the vineyards and flavours of Marlborough to the spectacular coastline of Kaikōura and alpine Hanmer Springs. Enjoy a seafood cruise through the Marlborough Sounds, sample renowned local wines, encounter whales off the Kaikōura coast and unwind amid the relaxed winter atmosphere of Hanmer Springs.
Itinerary
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Fly to Blenheim and begin with a visit to Makana Confections to sample their handmade chocolates. Later, enjoy wine tasting and lunch at Saint Clair Family Estate before settling into your hotel for two nights.
Included: L D
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Travel to Picton for the Seafood Odyssea Cruise through the beautiful Marlborough Sounds. Enjoy freshly harvested seafood paired with Marlborough wines while taking in the scenery, before returning to your hotel for dinner.
Included: B L D
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Visit the acclaimed Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, home to an impressive collection of First and Second World War aircraft and memorabilia. Then travel south along the spectacular coastline to Kaikōura, with time to relax before dinner.
Included: B D
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Head out on a whale watching cruise off the Kaikōura coast, keeping watch for magnificent sperm whales, dolphins and seabirds. Continue inland to Hanmer Springs for a two night stay, with a mid winter Christmas themed dinner this evening.
Included: B D
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Enjoy a day at your own pace. Unwind in the famous Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools, browse the village’s boutique shops and galleries, or simply enjoy the relaxed alpine atmosphere before dinner at Tease Bar & Eatery.
Included: B D
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Journey through the picturesque Canterbury countryside towards Christchurch, with rolling farmland, braided rivers and, on a clear day, snow capped Southern Alps along the way. Continue to Christchurch Airport for your flight home to Auckland.
Included: B MT
Winter never looked so good.
Reserve your place on this unforgettable tour. Numbers are limited, so don’t delay.
Why you’ll love this trip
Travelwise’s exceptional planning takes care of every detail – flights, quality accommodation, transfers, sightseeing and wonderful dining experiences – so you can simply relax and enjoy a South Island winter escape. From Marlborough wine and fresh seafood to whale watching in Kaikōura and the alpine charm of Hanmer Springs, this leisurely paced journey combines memorable experiences with plenty of time to unwind along the way.
Inclusions & Activities
Airfares: Return Economy class airfares Auckland to Blenheim and Christchurch to Auckland
Accommodation: 5 nights quality accommodation throughout
Sightseeing: All sightseeing and attractions as shown, including an afternoon cruise through the Marlborough Sounds, whale watching in Kaikōura and more
Meals: Daily breakfasts plus lunches and dinners as specified
Transfers: Home pick up and drop off in Auckland Metro area
Tour Leader: Travelwise Tour Leader throughout, plus local guides
Gillian Scott, Tour Leader
Your Tour Leader
Gillian Scott
Gillian is an adventurous, creative Tour Leader at Travelwise whose love of travel, sport, and storytelling brings energy and inspiration to every tour. She’s the perfect guide for travellers who want fun, friendship, and unforgettable experiences.
Before you book, you should know
Activity Level 1: Leisurely A gentle pace with relaxed sightseeing and regular breaks. Suitable for travellers comfortable with short walks, light touring, a few stairs, and independently boarding coaches, trains and boats.
A good choice if you prefer: A slower pace, regular breaks and minimal physical demand.
Departure: 17 July 2027
Other Notes:
Deposit $500pp
Balance Payment Date: 13 May 2027.
Bookings may still be available after this date. Please contact us for availability.
Insurance: Not mandatory for this tour.
